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Vineland Schools add another half day to calendar to prep for possible long-term closure

VINELAND – The Vineland Public School District is extending its half-day schedule to run Tuesday through Friday as it prepares for a possible long-term closure to mitigate the exposure to coronavirus, Superintendent Mary Gruccio told The Daily Journal on Saturday.

The initial plan called for early dismissal on Wednesday through Friday.

As of Saturday, the number of coronavirus cases in New Jersey climbed to 69, according to state health officials. No confirmed cases have been reported within Cumberland County.

The half days provide time for the staff to shift their instruction online and give students a test run using Google Classroom, which is how they will access their lessons at home.

District officials are preparing a video to show parents how Google Classroom works. It is expected to available on the district’s website www.vineland.org on Monday, district officials said.

“Most of the teaching staff and students are familiar already with Google Classroom and have used it to some degree for several years,” said Lou Russo, Vineland Education Association president.

“A few will have a crash course but one way or another we will all do our best to deliver the education to our students,” Russo said. “As long as parents, students, teachers, and administration all keep it in perspective and are flexible, we will get through it if it is needed.”

“This is in no way an ideal delivery of education, but the best we can under the circumstances if we're closed by the state, county or municipal boards of health,” he said.

The schedule for legal attendance days is:

High School - 7:33 a.m. - 12:27 p.m.

Middle School - 8:25 a.m. -1:25 p.m.

Elementary School - 9:10 a.m. - 1:55 p.m.

Preschool - 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Deborah M. Marko is a senior reporter with The Daily Journal. Currently focused on breaking news and education issues, she also oversees community outreach programs that promote literacy and public safety. Got a story idea? Call 856-563-5256. Follow on Twitter: @dmarko_dj Instagram: deb.marko.dj Help support local journalism with a The Daily Journal subscription.